The 5-Why’s technique is business analysis technique for getting at the root cause of issues. You start by asking why in relation to the issue. You then take the answer given and ask why again in relation to that answer. You continue this process until you have asked why five times.
This technique can also be used for conflict resolution.
In order to use this technique, you need the belief that at some level everyone wants the same thing. In the end, we all want to be happy, live fulfilled lives.
You start the conflict resolution by having each side go through the 5-why’s technique asking why they have their position. Each time you go through the process you get a deeper reason for why each side has their opinion. Eventually, you will get to a common ground. That is the starting point for resolving the conflict.
From that common point, you just need to take baby steps forward by both sides so they are going in the same direction.